Imaging Lab Safety

The following lab safety rules are not intended to substitute for chemical safety training. Please consult with the lab director should you have further questions about safety protocol.

General Guidelines

Read all posted materials before entering the lab.

Please be aware that some very toxic chemicals are used in preparing samples in the lab. Even if you personally will not be working in the prep lab, you must walk through the prep area to get to the microscope rooms. For this reason, you should be aware of the potential hazards. Do not use any chemicals or equipment in the lab unless you have been specifically trained by the lab director, and have permission to work on your own.

Food, Beverages and Gum

Food, beverages, and gum are not permitted in the lab. Any airborne contaminants could easily land on your food or become stuck in gum. Remember, the lab is using nanoparticles!

Backpacks, Books and Jackets

These can be stored in the black cabinet next to the white board. You can hang up your coat/jacket in the cabinet in the SEM room if you like. Please refrain from putting any of your personal belongings on or around the sink or fume hood, or on the floor in general in the prep area. You can take your belongings with you into the microscope rooms, but remember space is limited.

Appropriate Dress

If you will be working in the prep lab, you do not want exposed skin. Wear shoes that cover your feet, not just your toes. Wear a lab coat. Wear or bring jeans if your legs are not covered. Nitrile gloves are available and are more chemically resistant than latex. If you do not have your own safety glasses, there are safety glasses and two face shields available for your use.

Chemical and Physical Hazards

The following chemical and physical hazards are present in the lab:

• Gas cylinders
• Liquid nitrogen
• Lasers
• X-rays

After-hours and Unassisted Use Policy

You must read and sign an after hours access policy document, and fill out the lab key sign-out sheet. Access will be determined on a case-by-case basis, and the privilege may be revoked at the discretion of the lab director.